Alocasia macrorrhiza is similar to other large-leafed arums such as the Xanthosoma sagittifolium, Peltrandra spp., and Colocasia esculenta, often called Taro. Alocasia macrorrhiza differs from the others in having an upright stem and holding its leaves upright, and in several technical characteristics that mean a lot to the botanists. Numerous hybrids have been produced from among the various Elephant Ear species, and it's not always possible to identify particular specimens.

It produced insignificant but fragrant white flowers on a sradix enclosed in a leaf-like, yellow-green spathe.

Giant taro is cultivated throughout the tropics for its edible rhizomes and shoots.

Alocasias require continual warmth and humidity. The soil should be rich but well drained, and the plant appreciates frequent watering (daily in hot weather), especially as if grows larger. Note however, that when the plant is young and small, too much water (particularly if the weather is cold) will rot the tuber, so be careful not to overdo it.

Bright light is preferred, but it will do well in anything up to 80 percent shade. Leaves tend to grow larger in shadier positions. Full sun is usually not preferred and may discolour the leaves, although it will usually cope with a bit of full sun provided it can get enough water.

Solid Gold is a giant Alocasia, easily growing to 6 ft high in good tropical conditions. It has glossy emerald green leaves up to 1 metre long held stiffly upwards, with prominent yellow veining on the underside of the leaves. The striking and spectacular aspect of this plant is, of course, the buttercup yellow stems and veins on the undersides of the leaves. It is a bright and obvious yellow, not just a pale green or lemon color. The more light the plants receive, the brighter the stem and the darker the leaf will be. The stems of young plants are a lighter, greenish color until they get a few leaves; as they get older, the yellow color becomes more prominent.This is a fast growing Alocasia and in good conditions. It grows larger in the ground than in pots - Alocasias seem to need a lot of room for their roots to get the huge leaves.RECOMMENDED FERTILIZERS: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster Tropical Allure - Smart-Release Booster This item is certified for shipping to California.

California certification

Most of our plants are certified for shipping to California, however, certain plants are not certified. Please do not order not-certified plants to California addresses. These plants may be added to CA certification in the future; please contact us for more information.

Most of our plants are certified for shipping to California, however, certain plants are not certified. Please do not order not-certified plants to California addresses. These plants may be added to CA certification in the future; please contact us for more information.